Nursing in critical care
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Nursing in critical care · Mar 2010
Multicenter StudyPatients' perceptions of and emotional outcome after intensive care: results from a multicentre study.
Recovery from critical illness can be prolonged and can result in a number of significant short- and long-term psychological consequences. These may be associated with the patient's perception of the intensive care experience. ⋯ Standardised assessment of an intensive care experience is important. It provides information about the patient experience which can inform care practice within ICU, following discharge to the ward and, in the longer term, rehabilitation.
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Nursing in critical care · Mar 2010
Case Reports Randomized Controlled TrialRehabilitation after critical illness: could a ward-based generic rehabilitation assistant promote recovery?
The aim of this paper is to explore issues surrounding the implementation of a generic rehabilitation assistant (GRA) to provide ward-based rehabilitation after critical illness. ⋯ This model of service delivery offers the potential to improve outcomes for patients after a critical illness. Further research evaluating this model of care is required before implementation into clinical practice.
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The aim of this paper is to discuss the recognition, treatment and investigation of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening, generalized or systemic hypersensitivity reaction. It is characterized by rapidly developing life-threatening airway and/or breathing and/or circulation problems usually associated with skin and/or mucosal changes. ⋯ A raised serum mast cell tryptase suggests a diagnosis of anaphylaxis. All those who are suspected of having anaphylaxis should be referred to a specialist in allergy. Individuals at high risk of anaphylaxis where the trigger is difficult to avoid should carry an adrenaline auto-injector and receive training and support in its use.
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Nursing in critical care · Mar 2010
ReviewTracheostomy care and management in general wards and community settings: literature review.
To identify current perspectives and areas for research regarding care and management of tracheostomized adult patients discharged to general wards and the community. ⋯ More tracheostomized patients are being discharged to non-specialized areas, and issues have been raised regarding risks to patients. Research is required to determine the best methods of promoting best practice to improve tracheostomy care.
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Nursing in critical care · Mar 2010
Observing the approaches to weaning of the long-term ventilated patients.
The weaning process from mechanical ventilation is a complicated issue for patients with respiratory failure who require long-term respiratory support. Although the application of weaning protocols reduces weaning time, and enhances patient outcome, little is known about the actual approaches that clinicians use for the weaning of these patients. ⋯ There are many varieties in the approaches clinicians use when weaning long-term ventilated patients, which acts on the continuity of their care. A shift of focus to identify ways of maintaining continuity of care and a combined 'wake and wean' approach needs to be considered.